Differential Diagnosis for Intermittent Sharp Abdominal Pain at Umbilicus
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Functional abdominal pain or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): This is often the most common cause of intermittent abdominal pain, including around the umbilicus, due to its high prevalence and the fact that it can manifest with a variety of symptoms including sharp pains.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Gastroenteritis: Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually due to infection, can cause sharp abdominal pain that may be intermittent and located around the umbilicus.
- Constipation: Severe constipation can lead to intermittent sharp pains as the bowel contracts to move hard stool.
- Peptic ulcer disease: Although more commonly associated with epigastric pain, peptic ulcers can sometimes cause pain that radiates or is referred to the umbilical area.
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause intermittent sharp abdominal pain, among other symptoms.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Appendicitis: Although appendicitis typically presents with pain that initially is diffuse or around the umbilicus and then localizes to the right lower quadrant, it's crucial not to miss this diagnosis due to its potential for serious complications if not promptly treated.
- Intestinal obstruction: This can cause severe, intermittent abdominal pain and is a medical emergency.
- Ovarian torsion or cyst rupture: In females, these conditions can cause sudden, severe abdominal pain and are emergencies.
- Ectopic pregnancy: Another emergency in females, ectopic pregnancy can present with abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Mesenteric panniculitis (Sclerosing mesenteritis): A rare condition involving inflammation of the mesenteric fat, which can cause abdominal pain.
- Abdominal migraines: A condition more commonly seen in children, characterized by recurrent episodes of severe abdominal pain, often accompanied by other migraine symptoms.
- Chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction: A rare condition where there are symptoms of intestinal obstruction without any physical blockage.